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Areca Hotel Penang

No. 5 Jalan Khoo Sian Ewe, George Town, Penang Island 10050 Malaysia
Traveller (509)
Room & Suite (84)
Dining (54)
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About

#10 of 119 hotels in George Town
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Value
Travellers' Choice
Conveniently situated within the UNESCO World Heritage buffer zone and walking distance from the central business district, Areca Hotel offers families and travelers the opportunity to experience the rich history and vibrant culture that George Town and Penang has to offer. Areca Hotel is named after the Areca Palm (Areca Catechu), also known commonly as the Pinang palm and from which Penang island derives its name. Our family hotel features 50 rooms located across twelve newly renovated shop houses in a private enclave along Khoo Sian Ewe Road. The original pre war shop houses (and the land on both sides of Khoo Sian Ewe Road) were once owned by Khoo Sian Ewe, philanthropic businessman, landowner and during his time one of the wealthiest men in Penang. The Majestic Theatre, located directly opposite our hotel, was the first cinema in Penang to screen Chinese sound films. We offer a variety of rooms ranging from spacious family suites, cozy garden rooms to luxurious heritage suites. Modern furnishings provide guests with the comforts of home. Additional facilities in the hotel include a cafe, children’s room, conference/meeting room, library and computer lounge. We invite you to stay with us and enjoy our family-friendly hospitality. Fancy a bowl of Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul but long queue and hot sun? Courtesy from Areca Hotel, in-house guests can now enjoy it when you savour your Complimentary Afternoon Tea with us.
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Property amenities
Street parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Coffee shop
Patio
Walking tours
Indoor play area for children
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Car hire
Wifi
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Complimentary welcome drink
Kids' meals
Outdoor dining area
Taxi service
Meeting rooms
24-hour security
Baggage storage
Concierge
Non-smoking hotel
First aid kit
Umbrella
24-hour check-in
24-hour front desk
Express check-in / check-out
Laundry service
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Room features
Air conditioning
Desk
Housekeeping
Safe
Coffee / tea maker
Refrigerator
Cable / satellite TV
Bidet
Telephone
Wardrobe / wardrobe
Bottled water
Clothes rack
Tile / marble floor
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Electric kettle
Flatscreen TV
Bath / shower
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
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Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
3.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Quaint
Boutique
Languages Spoken
English, Chinese, Filipino, Malay
757Reviews14Q+A100Room tips
Traveller rating
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Redward1947 wrote a review Yesterday
Northampton, United Kingdom77 contributions27 helpful votes
Lovely hotel renovated from shophouses. Large comfortable well appointed rooms, we had a ground floor one on first visit and a second floor one on second visit. Good choice of items for breakfast and loved our afternoon tea. Staff most helpful. A very good central hotel and the free CAT bus has a stop nearby.
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Date of stay: March 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Very central, use the free CAT bus with a stop nearby to help you get around Georgetown.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Areca Hotel, General Manager at Areca Hotel Penang
Responded yesterday
Dear Redward1947, It's wonderful to know that you found our rooms to be large, comfortable, and well-appointed, regardless of the floor level. We're delighted that you were pleased with the breakfast options and that you enjoyed our afternoon tea offerings. Thank you for choosing to stay with us, and we hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back on many future occasions. Best Regards, Wah Eng Hong General Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Stephen C wrote a review 16 Mar
Leeds, United Kingdom114 contributions55 helpful votes
Excellent stay, friendly and helpful staff, comfortable room. Breakfast choice could have been more varied, complimentary afternoon tea was a nice touch but was limited in range and variety. Overall, a very pleasant experience and would stay again.
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Date of stay: March 2024
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Areca Hotel, General Manager at Areca Hotel Penang
Responded yesterday
Dear stephencohen, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us regarding your recent stay at our hotel. We are delighted to hear that you had an excellent experience overall and that our staff contributed to making your stay enjoyable. Your comments regarding the breakfast choice and the variety of our complimentary afternoon tea are duly noted. It's wonderful to hear that you would consider staying with us again. We look forward to welcoming you back and providing you with another memorable experience. Best Regards, Wah Eng Hong General Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Cecilyann wrote a review 08 Mar
5 contributions
Characteristic George Town hotel in vibrant heritage area, not far from the serious colonial end of town. A bustling location with mixed Malay, Chinese, Indian street life. Attentive staff with 24 hour reception. Good breakfast choices - courtyard & dining room. Rooms well appointed and comfortable; virtually no traffic noise.
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Date of stay: March 2024
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Areca Hotel, General Manager at Areca Hotel Penang
Responded 1 week ago
Dear Cecilyann, Thank you for taking the time to share your experience at Areca Hotel Penang! We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed our vibrant location, attentive staff, delicious breakfast options, and comfortable rooms. We hope to see you again! Best Regards, Wah Eng Hong General Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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andyoh wrote a review Feb 2024
London, United Kingdom17 contributions18 helpful votes
A really nice and classic hotel which is close to everything in George Town. All of the walking streets with food markets are close by too. I upgraded to a heritage loft room, which was cool and spacious with a massive king bed. The room was nicely furnished in keeping with the heritage hotel. Service was friendly and professional. I had to have my passport couriered to the hotel to meet me on arrival. And front of house received it and looked after it for me until I arrived. I recommend!
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Date of stay: February 2024Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Areca Hotel, General Manager at Areca Hotel Penang
Responded 2 weeks ago
Dear andyoh, Thank you for sharing your experience with us! We're delighted to hear that you enjoyed your stay in our heritage loft room and found our location convenient. We appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back soon! Best Regards, Wah Eng Hong General Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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B4117VGbill wrote a review Feb 2024
Da Nang, Vietnam1 contribution
+1
Wonderfully quaint boutique Hotel, which we initially thought was a bit out of the way but soon discovered that it was smack in the middle of where we wanted to go. The staff were very helpful and courteous and we couldn’t have had a nicer stay. In fact we have joined their loyalty program as we plan to stay there again on our next trip to Penang. You cant have a higher recommendation than that.
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Date of stay: February 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Areca Hotel, General Manager at Areca Hotel Penang
Responded 3 weeks ago
Dear B4117VGbill, We're glad you enjoyed your stay at our boutique hotel! It's great to hear that you found our location convenient and our staff helpful. We can't wait to host you again on your next trip to Penang! Best Regards, Wah Eng Hong General Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Bunwing wrote a review Feb 2024
12 contributions10 helpful votes
A beautiful hotel central to amenities as well as attractions. All staff from the front desk to cleaning staff were awesome, friendly and helpful. I can’t recommend this hotel enough! Best hotel I’ve stayed in so far during my 3 month tour of SE Asia.
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Date of stay: February 2024Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Areca Hotel, General Manager at Areca Hotel Penang
Responded 10 Feb 2024
Dear bunwing, Thank you so much for your glowing review! We're thrilled to hear that your stay with us exceeded your expectations and that our team could make your visit memorable. We appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back soon for another fantastic experience. Best Regards, Wah Eng Hong General Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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johnpace297 wrote a review Jan 2024
Singapore, Singapore1 contribution
We had a wonderful experience at Areca Hotel. The front office desk staff were always very helpful and friendly to us and all guests. The hotel itself is lovely and very well situated. We wish to visit Penang again and when we do we know where we will stay - Areca Hotel.
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Date of stay: January 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Areca Hotel, General Manager at Areca Hotel Penang
Responded 17 Jan 2024
Dear johnpace297, Thank you for your kind words! We're delighted to hear that you had a wonderful experience at Areca Hotel. Our team looks forward to welcoming you back on your next visit to Penang. Best Regards, Wah Eng Hong General Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Sayumib wrote a review Jan 2024
Brisbane, Australia48 contributions12 helpful votes
I stayed here for 4 nights. Even I arrived at 12:30, They let me check in. Hotel staff are always friendly and greeting . Very good food eateries are so close and Komtar bus stop is only 5 min. walk. room is clean and bed is comfy.I am very glad to choose this hotel.💕
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Date of stay: January 2024Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Areca Hotel, General Manager at Areca Hotel Penang
Responded 14 Jan 2024
Dear Sayumid, Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us! We're delighted to hear that your stay was enjoyable, from our accommodating check-in to the friendly staff, convenient location, and comfortable amenities. It's our pleasure to provide a positive and memorable experience. We look forward to welcoming you back on your future visits! Best Regards, Wah Eng Hong General Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Henry S wrote a review Jan 2024
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam1 contribution
We’re very happy to stay in the hotel Areca the room was clean and suited for us and we love the decor of the entire hotel and the entire staff were very helpful begin from the manager to the all his staff. Thank you very much! Henry and Grace S
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Date of stay: January 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Areca Hotel, General Manager at Areca Hotel Penang
Responded 08 Jan 2024
Dear Henry and Grace S, Thank you so much for your kind words! Your feedback is truly appreciated, and we look forward to welcoming you back for another enjoyable stay in the future. Best Regards, Wah Eng Hong General Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Hajar9519 wrote a review Jan 2024
George Town, Malaysia1 contribution
+1
Interior design so beautiful. Excellent service front desk and other staffs. So many choices for breakfast buffet. Near to attraction place such as the top, street art and places to eat. Will recommend to my family and friends
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Date of stay: December 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Areca Hotel, General Manager at Areca Hotel Penang
Responded 03 Jan 2024
Dear Hajar9519, Thank you for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed our beautiful interior design, excellent service, and the variety of choices at our breakfast buffet. We're also delighted to be conveniently located near popular attractions. It was a pleasure having you as our guest, and we look forward to welcoming you, your family, and friends back soon! Best Regards, Wah Eng Hong General Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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PRICE RANGE
R 924 - R 1,264 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
MalaysiaPenangPenang IslandGeorge Town
NUMBER OF ROOMS
48
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect average nightly room rates, including taxes and fees that are fixed, known to our partners, and due at time of booking. Please see our partners for more details.
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ARECA HOTEL PENANG - Now R 906 (Was R̶ ̶1̶ ̶2̶4̶5̶) - UPDATED 2024 Reviews & Price Comparison (George Town, Malaysia) - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Areca Hotel Penang
Which popular attractions are close to Areca Hotel Penang?
Nearby attractions include Penang House of Music (0.4 km), Tech Dome Penang (0.4 km), and Upside Down Museum (0.4 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Areca Hotel Penang?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, an on-site restaurant, and meeting rooms.
Which room amenities are available at Areca Hotel Penang?
Top room amenities include air conditioning, a flat screen TV, and a refrigerator.
What food & drink options are available at Areca Hotel Penang?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, breakfast, and complimentary tea during their stay.
Is parking available at Areca Hotel Penang?
Yes, street parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Areca Hotel Penang?
Conveniently located restaurants include Laksalicious, Il Bacaro, and Tai Tong Restaurant.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Areca Hotel Penang?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, Chinese, Malay, and Filipino.
Are there any historical sites close to Areca Hotel Penang?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Armenian Street (0.7 km), George Town (0.8 km), and Sun Yat Sen Museum (0.7 km).
Is Areca Hotel Penang accessible?
Yes, it offers wheelchair access. For specific enquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.